Regional Office of Education #26

09/15/2026

Our September Newsletter is here!

This month, we’re putting the spotlight on some of the newest faces at ROE26!

We’re excited to introduce the talented individuals who have recently joined our team and are already making a difference for students, families, schools, and communities across our region.

Take a few minutes to meet our new staff, learn a little more about them, and help us give them a warm ROE26 welcome!

📖 Read the September Newsletter: https://conta.cc/46b5jEr

09/14/2026

🎓 Congratulations, Markie! 🎉

We’re proud to celebrate Markie Phillips, a remote ROYALS student, who has completed all required coursework to graduate from their home district!

Markie’s hard work, persistence, and commitment have brought them to this exciting milestone. We are grateful that ROYALS could be part of Markie’s journey and wish them all the best as they take their next steps!

09/11/2026

Today, on the 25th anniversary of September 11, we pause to remember the lives lost, honor the courage and sacrifice of so many, and reflect on the spirit of unity that brought communities together.

As we remember, we can also honor this day through the way we care for one another. A kind word, a helping hand, an act of service—each is a meaningful way to strengthen our schools and communities.

On this National Day of Service and Remembrance, may we carry forward the compassion, kindness, and willingness to serve others that remind us of the good we can accomplish together.

We remember. We honor. We serve.

09/10/2026

Throwback Thursday to Carthage ROYALS first Life Skills Class/student demonstration of the year in August.

We give a huge shoutout to Robbie. He runs a thriving lawn mowing business and was “all in” to share his knowledge with us!

Thank you to Ms. Matthews for arranging the class and bringing her lawn mower to school.

09/09/2026

Congratulations Max McBride! Keep up the great work!

🌟 LEAP STUDENT OF THE MONTH SPOTLIGHT 🌟

We are proud to kick off our Monthly District Highlights by celebrating Max McBride from Macomb Middle School as our very first LEAP Student of the Month!

Through the LEAP Program, we partner across six school districts to celebrate one student from each district making remarkable strides in Attendance, Academics, and Behavior. Max was chosen for his inspiring commitment to showing up, taking ownership of his education, and actively building a bright vision for his future.

Here is what his LEAP Advocate, Meg Ault, had to say about Max’s incredible growth:

"Max has a whole new lease on school life this year. He hasn't missed a single day so far and has 100% attendance! Instead of letting obstacles hold him back, he now visits the LEAP room or emails me to self-advocate and ask for help when he needs it.

This year, Max is checking his grades, staying on top of his progress, and even looking ahead to high school by joining new classes so he can get involved in future activities. I am so stinking proud of Max!"

Max, your dedication, self-advocacy, and positive attitude are setting an amazing example for everyone around you. this year.

Keep reaching high and building your future. We are all rooting for you! 👏🎉

💬 Drop a message of congratulations and encouragement for Max in the comments below!

Macomb 185 Schools

09/03/2026

📣 Registration is OPEN for the Raising Student Achievement Conference (RSAC)!

Join educators and leaders from across Illinois for an opportunity to learn, connect, collaborate, and bring new ideas back to your schools and communities.

⭐ Special pricing is available for Regional Superintendents and Assistant Regional Superintendents!

🔹 IARSS 1-Day Registration – $125
Use coupon code: IARSSONEDAY!

🔹 IARSS 2-Day Registration – $210
Use coupon code: IARSSTWODAY!

🔗 Register today: https://rsac2026.sched.com/

We hope to see you at RSAC 2026! 🌟

08/28/2026

🎉 Today’s the day, Macomb! 🎉

Come out to the Downtown Block Party for an evening of FREE fun for students, families, and our entire community! 🎶🎈

📍 Chandler Park
📅 TODAY — Friday, August 28
⏰ 4:30–6:30 p.m.

Enjoy live music, games, a foam party, petting zoo, fire truck, snow cones, a chicken lip eating contest, and so much more!

🌟 Bring your family, invite your friends, and come celebrate our community!

08/27/2026

Congratulations to Spoon River Valley CUSD #4's Jennifer Burdette for being named the National Rural Teacher of the Year by National Rural Education Association!

We are beyond excited to share that our Illinois Rural Teacher of the Year, Jennifer Burdette from Spoon River Valley CUSD #4, has been named the NATIONAL Rural Teacher of the Year by the National Rural Education Association! 🎉 Learn more: https://airssedu.org/post/jennifer-burdette-national-toy-2026/